Addressing Hair Loss and Age Spots: Expert Dermatological Insights

Hair loss and spots on the back of the hands?

Hello Dr.
Du,
I have been troubled by two issues in recent years.
The first is that my hairline has receded at the forehead, and the hair on the crown of my head has also become sparse, making it difficult to maintain my hairstyle.
I do not have a hereditary form of baldness, and I do not smoke or drink; I am in good health.
In fact, among my peers, my hairstyle and hair volume still give me a somewhat "younger" appearance.
However, this condition has worsened significantly in recent years, and I am quite worried.
I would like to ask if using products like "Rogaine" could provide relief.
Are these medications effective, and do they have any side effects or long-term consequences? Perhaps Dr.
Du could recommend other effective products or medical treatments.
I sincerely hope you can clarify these concerns for me and I appreciate your understanding.
The second issue is that I have developed several small brown spots on the back of my hands.
I have heard that these are age spots.
Can this condition be treated with topical medications? If so, I would definitely visit your clinic.
I have also heard about laser treatment.
Is this covered by health insurance? If not, could you please inform me about the treatment costs?
I kindly ask for your guidance and information on these two matters to alleviate my long-standing concerns.
I will certainly follow your medical advice and seek treatment.
Thank you, and I wish you a pleasant summer.

Gong, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/08/17

Dr. Du Zhiqiang reply Dermatology

Hello, if there is thinning hair in the frontal area with an M-shaped hairline receding, and the individual is over 30 years old, it may be androgenetic alopecia.
Even if there is no obvious hereditary pattern in the previous generation, there could be a skipped generation inheritance.
In modern times, many people experience early onset of androgenetic alopecia due to high levels of stress.
Treatments such as topical or spray products for hair loss may provide some help, but one should not have high expectations or believe that they will lead to significant hair regrowth.
For active treatment of androgenetic alopecia, oral finasteride is generally recommended, but it requires long-term use.
The side effects are minimal, but it is not advisable for younger individuals (under 30) to start this treatment, as it would need to be taken for a lifetime, and discontinuation will gradually revert to the original condition, which can be quite "cruel."
The spots on the skin may be sunspots, also known as "age spots." If the individual is relatively young (under 40), we seldom refer to them as "senile spots," as age is a sensitive issue.
Laser treatment is not covered by health insurance, so if one desires cosmetic improvement, it will require some financial investment.
There are no better methods available, but to prevent further increase, sun protection and minimizing sun exposure can be somewhat helpful.

Wishing you peace and health,
Dr.
Du Zhi-Liang,
Director of Dermatology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2010/08/17

More Info

Dear Patient,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding hair loss and age spots. Both issues are common and can significantly affect one’s self-esteem and overall quality of life. Let’s address each of your concerns in detail.

Hair Loss
From your description, it seems you are experiencing a receding hairline and thinning hair on the crown of your head. While you mentioned that there is no family history of baldness, it’s essential to understand that hair loss can occur due to various factors, including hormonal changes, stress, nutritional deficiencies, and even certain medical conditions.

Minoxidil (Rogaine) is a topical treatment that is often recommended for hair loss. It is FDA-approved and has been shown to promote hair regrowth in some individuals. However, it is important to note that results can vary, and it may take several months to see noticeable improvements. Common side effects include scalp irritation and unwanted facial hair growth in some cases. It’s crucial to use it as directed and consult with a dermatologist before starting any new treatment.

In addition to Minoxidil, you might consider finasteride (Propecia), an oral medication that can help prevent further hair loss by blocking the hormone responsible for hair thinning. However, this medication is typically prescribed for men and may have side effects, including sexual dysfunction. Again, a consultation with a healthcare provider is essential to determine the best course of action for your specific situation.

Other treatments include low-level laser therapy, which has shown promise in stimulating hair follicles and promoting hair growth. This non-invasive treatment can be done in a clinic or with at-home devices.

Age Spots
Regarding the brown spots on your hands, commonly referred to as "age spots" or "liver spots," these are generally harmless and result from prolonged sun exposure over time. While they are not a medical concern, many individuals seek treatment for cosmetic reasons.

Topical treatments containing ingredients like hydroquinone, retinoids, or alpha hydroxy acids can help lighten these spots over time. However, these treatments require consistent use and may take several weeks to show results.

Laser therapy is another effective option for removing age spots. This procedure involves using focused light to target and break down the pigment in the skin. The effectiveness of laser treatment can vary, and multiple sessions may be required for optimal results. As for insurance coverage, it typically does not cover cosmetic procedures, so it’s best to inquire about the costs directly with the clinic.

Conclusion
In summary, both hair loss and age spots can be addressed with various treatments. I recommend scheduling an appointment with a dermatologist who can evaluate your specific conditions and recommend personalized treatment options. They can also discuss the potential benefits and risks associated with each treatment, ensuring you make an informed decision.

Please remember that while treatments can help, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and proper skincare, can also contribute to the overall health of your hair and skin.

Thank you for your inquiry, and I wish you the best in your journey toward addressing these concerns.
Best regards,
Dr. Du

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